LED light timing in a high growth, high density, closed environment system

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein is a high growth, high density, closed environment growing system and methods thereof. A method of accelerating plant cell growth in a growing system may include adjusting the lighting in accordance with an identified plant growth stage.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 14/200,210, filedMar. 7, 2014, which claims the benefit U.S. Ser. No. 61/784,837, filedMar. 14, 2013.

Each of the above applications are hereby incorporated by reference intheir entirety:

BACKGROUND

Field

The disclosure herein relates to a high growth, high density, closedenvironment hydroponics system.

Discussion of Related Art

The cost of growing and providing vegetables and other produce to thepopulation is increasing. The sprawl of the population takes more andmore of the land available for conventional farming. The farms thatexist are constantly being moved further away for the populationcenters. The increased distance of transporting the produce, and theincreased cost of transportation overall causes increases in the producecosts to the consumer. The produce is also not as fresh as it once wassince it has been transported increasingly longer distances.

The amount of land which supports conventional farming is shrinking.Therefore, there is a need to provide a new system for growing producethat can be implemented close to the population centers and also inareas that have not been able to be used for conventional farming.

SUMMARY

Disclosed herein is a high growth, high density, growing system andmethods thereof. In an embodiment, the high growth, high density growingsystem is at least a partially closed environment. In an embodiment, thehigh growth, high density growing system is a closed environment. In anembodiment, the growing system is a high growth, high density, closedenvironment hydroponics system (HG HD CEHS). Throughout thespecification, the high growth, high density, closed environmenthydroponics system may be used as exemplary but any of the methods andsystems described herein may be used with any growing system.

A method of accelerating plant cell growth in a growing system mayinclude a combination of optimizing nutrient solution in accordance witha growth curve, calibrating the pH of the solution to optimize nutrientabsorption throughout the growth curve, controlling temperaturethroughout the growth cycle and at maturation, adjusting the lighting inaccordance with a growth stage, and controlling the delivery of carbondioxide. The growing system may be a closed environment hydroponicsystem.

In an aspect, a method may include determining light timing to optimizeplant growth, wherein determining utilizes an equation based upon thevariables of a plant species, wherein the variables are: seedling stresstime (SS), growth maturity height, plant maturity phase, and plantgrowth time. Growth start height may be measured for a seedling plantedinto the hydroponic system from the base of the growth medium to the topof the seedling plant. Growth maturity height may be measured from thebase of the growth medium to the top of the fully mature plant.

In an aspect, a system for optimal carbon dioxide enrichment for plantproduction in a growing system may include a carbon dioxide tubing hungin a secured position on one side of a grow media tray to form adistribution point. The system evenly disperses carbon dioxide acrossthe hydroponic grow media from the distribution point. A maximum amountof released carbon dioxide will be across the hydroponic grow media,thus allowing for the full potential of carbon dioxide enrichment withinhydroponic system. The system forms a negative overhead pressure thatforces expired oxygen to sink and be reclaimed into the hydroponicsystem. The expired oxygen may be recaptured in a water reservoir tankto improve nutrient oxygenation. The growing system may be a closedenvironment hydroponic system.

In an aspect, disclosed herein is a non-transitory computer-readablestorage medium with an executable program stored thereon, wherein theprogram instructs a processor to perform the following steps: determinea plant growth profile, and supply carbon dioxide based on a plantgrowth profile.

In an aspect, a system for recapturing aspirated oxygen is via anaeration device that bubbles the oxygen into the hydroponic nutrienttank.

In an aspect, a system of electrically charging the nutrient reservoirin a growing environment to stimulate plant growth may include a liquidreservoir, and an electronically operated liquid-charging means forcausing the liquid to be electrically charged in such a manner that theliquid charges the roots of the plant for stimulation. Theliquid-charging means includes a protective overload device. The systemmay further include two power sources. The system may further include anisolator to protect against any electrocution. The system may furtherinclude an operating time means for recording the amount of time thatthe system has been in operation. The growing environment may be aclosed environment hydroponic system.

In an aspect, a method of heating and cooling a hydroponic nutrientsolution may be based an equation with variables related to a plantspecies, wherein the variables include seedling stress time—SS, growthmaturity height, plant maturity phase, and plant growth time. Growthstart height may be measured after the seedling is planted into thehydroponic system from the base of the growth medium to the top of theseedling plant. Growth maturity height may be measured from the base ofthe growth medium to the top of the full mature plant.

In an aspect, a method of growing plants may include placing plants in areceptacle and providing conditions for growth of the seedlings, andgrowth of the mature plants, and then removing the mature plants fromthe receptacle. An apparatus for growing plants may include a series ofstacked shelves in a rack, each capable of receiving a receptaclecontaining seeds or plants, each divided into a number of successivezones in which the plants may be exposed to the necessary environmentalconditions for the particular stage of growth in that zone. A receptaclefor receiving plants may include a flood tray having a drain hole, thedrain hole being fitted with a drain control means that includes a tubethat returns to the reservoir. The series of racks may be connectedtogether from left to right and a further series of racks may beconnected from right to left. Shelving may be mounted one above theother, so that the headroom of the lower rack is measured atapproximately a distance equal to the maturity height of the plant. Aplurality of series of shelves are mounted one above the other, eachseries of shelves being provided with lighting means, water and/ornutrient feeding means, and drain means. The feeding means to eachseries of inclined racks may be divided up into zones along the lengthof the rack so that different feeding solutions can be dispensed to eachzone. Each zone may have an associated drain system which may collectthe drained feed solution individually or return it all to a common sumphole for disposal or recycling.

In an aspect, a low voltage growing system may include lighting andmechanical systems connected to a step down transformer that convertshigh voltage a.c. power to d.c. low voltage power. The entire highdensity hydroponic environment may be powered by a d.c. voltage system.The d.c. power may supply any of the system mechanicals. The growingsystem may be a closed environment hydroponic system.

In an aspect, a method of growing a plant may include supplying an evennutrient solution to the root of the plant across a hydroponic solutionmedium regardless of the grow medium used. The normal nutrient solutionmay be drained and a measured amount of more highly concentratednutrient solution may be introduced into the nutrient supply. Inembodiments, the nutrient solution passes only once across the rootsystem, and the solution in the collecting area is drained. The nutrientsolution conveyed to the collecting area is subsequently fed to saidplant. The supply of nutrient solution is static. In an aspect, anapparatus for cultivating a plant hydroponically by the method mayinclude a tube of numerous flow holes to distribute the nutrientsolution over a higher density root system. The apparatus may furtherinclude a facility to adjust the flow holes according to the plantspecies and the level of root growth. The plant receives the same amountof nutrient solution in the center of a hydroponic flood tray as at theedges of the system. The collecting means may include a vessel floatingin said supply of nutrient solution. The supply of nutrient solution isstatic. The method may be employed in a closed environment hydroponicsystem.

In an aspect, a method may include determining pH of a nutrient solutionby an equation based upon the variables of a plant species. Thesevariables are: seedling stress time—SS, growth maturity height, plantmaturity phase, and plant growth time and the average plant pHpreference. Growth start height may be measured from when the seedlingis planted into the hydroponic system and from the base of the growthmedium to the top of the seedling plant. Growth maturity height may bemeasured as the height at full maturity of the plant species

In an aspect, a system may include a dehumidifier in a closed hydroponicenvironment of the kind having a vapor compression circuit containing anevaporator and a condenser and arranged to operate with alternatingwater extraction and defrost phases, the dehumidifier including atemperature sensor arranged to monitor the operating temperature of theevaporator, and a control facility for controlling the duration of thewater extraction and defrost phases. The control facility may bearranged to read a reference temperature from the said sensor during awater extraction phase and starts the defrost phase when the evaporatortemperature reaches a calculated temperature below the referencetemperature. The control facility may be arranged to take temperaturereadings from the said sensor at predetermined intervals and calculatethe rate of fall of the evaporator temperature, starting the defrostphase when the calculated rate of temperature fall exceeds apredetermined figure. The water extracted may be recirculated into thewater reservoirs in the hydroponic container.

In an aspect, a method may include controlling certain environmentalfactors in a high density hydroponic environment to considerably slowdown the plant cell replication process thereby extending the growingcycle of a given plant species. The air, lighting, and nutrient systemsare controlled to adjust the growing cycle of a given plant species.

In an aspect, a method may include evenly mixing a hydroponic nutrientsolution in a reservoir system based upon placing certain mixing pumpsand aerators located to provide adequate mixing. The mixing pumps maycreate a failsafe design by mixing the solution even if one of themixing pumps fails.

In an aspect, a system is disclosed whereby individual hydroponicshelving racks are arranged in a closed container environment and eachrack has its own nutrient solution and tray assembly. The lighting, andnutrient systems for the independent hydroponic racking system arecontrolled such that there is no possibility of intermixing of lightingor nutrient solutions across racks.

In an aspect, a lighting unit system in a growing system may include atleast one LED lighting source, wherein each lighting source includes asupport structure, a plurality of light emitting elements along a lengthof said support such as a shelving unit, and a shelving unit from whichthe support is to be hung. The light system is designed to provide themaximum wattage of at least 15 watts per square foot of hydroponiccoverage area. At least some of the light emitting elements emit lightof a first color and at least some of the light emitting elements emitlight of a second color. At least one lighting source may include atleast one of a mechanical or electrical connection to another lightingstrip. The lighting unit is configured to selectively provide at leastone of indirect light distribution or direct light distribution. Thelighting unit may further include a controller configured to vary alight output of the lighting unit. The support structure may be a rigid,elongated structure similar to a rack shelving unit. The growing systemmay be a closed environment hydroponic system.

In an aspect, a growing system for promoting the rapid growth ofseedlings may include a substantially closed container, a nutrientsolution within the closed container, a seedling positioned within thenutrient solution, a grow light, at least one sensor adapted to observegrowth of the seedling, and a controller coupled to the grow light. Thecontroller and the at least one sensor may be adapted to readinformation from the sensor to determine if growth has occurred,calculate a seedling stress duration, wherein the seedling stressduration commences with the positioning of the first seedling in thegrowing system and terminates when growth is observed in the firstseedling, divide the seedling stress duration into a plurality ofsubphases, determine a subphase factor for a second seedling positionedin the growing system based on which subphase the second seedling hasreached based on an elapsed time, calculate the total number of on/offlight cycles and a duration for each on/off cycle, wherein one cycle isturning the lights on and off, and control the grow light to execute thetotal number of calculated on/off light cycles for the calculatedduration of time the lights are on and time the lights are off duringeach cycle in the growing system. The subphase factor may be determinedby multiplying the seeding stress duration by a fraction. The number ofon/off light cycles is determined by dividing the total timing of thelight cycle in the subphase by two times the subphase factor. A durationthe lights are on and a duration the lights are off in each on/off cycleis calculated by multiplying the subphase factor by 60 minutes. Theremay be three subphases and the fraction for a first subphase is 1/600.There may be three subphases and the fraction for a second subphase is1/300. There may be three subphases and the fraction for a thirdsubphase is 1/200. The grow light may be at least one of a red LED lightand a blue LED light. The grow light may be of a wavelength selected inaccordance with a predetermined plant species. The growth may beobserved by a visual analysis of the first seedling. The sensor tomonitor growth of a plant may be one or more of a video observation, alaser sensor, and a location/proximity sensor. The growth of the firstseedling may be determined by measurement of a weight of the firstseedling. The sensor to monitor growth of a plant may be an O₂ sensor.The growth of the first seedling may be determined by measurement ofconsumption of a nutrient in the nutrient solution. The growing systemmay be a hydroponic growing system.

In an aspect, a method for accelerating growth of a seedling positionedin a nutrient solution in a growing system may include the steps ofobserving a seedling to monitor growth of the seedling over the courseof a plurality of plant maturity phases, wherein a second plant maturityphase commences when growth is first observed in the seedling andterminates with the development of a full leaf or bud relative to theother leaves or buds in the seedling, a third plant maturity phasecommences at the end of the second plant maturity phase and terminateswhen full plant maturity occurs in the plant as determined by the plantspecies, and a fourth plant maturity phase commences with reaching fullmaturity and terminates when the plant is ready to be harvested. Themethod may further include calculating a number of hours for an LED growlight to remain on during a first portion of the second plant maturityphase by multiplying a first fraction by a recommended lighting cycle inhours for a given plant species, calculating a number of hours for theLED grow light to remain off during the first portion of the secondplant maturity phase by subtracting the first fraction times therecommended lighting cycle from twenty-four hours, calculating a numberof hours for the LED grow light to remain on during a second portion ofthe second plant maturity phase by multiplying a second fraction by therecommended lighting cycle in hours, calculating a number of hours forthe LED grow light to remain off during the second portion of the secondplant maturity phase by subtracting the second fraction times therecommended lighting cycle from twenty-four hours, and executing theon/off light cycles for the calculated durations in the growing systemby controlling a grow light in accordance with the on/off light cyclesto result in accelerated growth of the seedling. The first fraction maybe ⅓ and the second fraction may be ⅔. The method may further includeusing the recommended lighting cycle for a number of hours the LED growlight is to remain on per day during the third plant maturity phase andcalculating a number of hours for the LED grow light to remain offduring the third plant maturity phase by subtracting the recommendedlighting cycle from twenty-four hours. The method may further includecalculating a number of hours for the LED grow light to remain on perday during the fourth plant maturity phase by multiplying ½ times therecommended lighting cycle and calculating a number of hours for the LEDgrow light to remain off during the fourth plant maturity phase bysubtracting ½ times the recommended lighting cycle from twenty-fourhours. At least one of a grow light wavelength, temperature, andnutrient concentration may be varied over the plant maturity phases. Themethod may further include the step of withdrawing nutrient solutionwhen the plant reaches the fourth plant maturity phase. The method mayfurther include the step of terminating all light cycles when the plantreaches a harvest stage. The method may further include the step ofreducing the temperature in the growing system when the plant reachesthe fourth plant maturity phase. The grow light may be at least one of ared LED light and a blue LED light. The grow light may be of awavelength selected in accordance with a specific plant species. Growthmay be observed by a visual analysis of the seedling. Growth of theseedling may be determined by one or more of a video observation, alaser sensor, and a location/proximity sensor. Growth of the seedlingmay be determined by measurement of a weight of the seedling. Growth ofthe seedling may be determined by measurement of an O₂ output in thesystem by an O₂ sensor. Growth of the seedling may be determined bymeasurement of a concentration of a nutrient solution to determine theseedling consumption.

In an aspect, a growing system for promoting the rapid growth ofseedlings may include a substantially closed container, a nutrientsolution within the closed container, a seedling positioned within thenutrient solution, a grow light, and a controller coupled to the growlight adapted to receive information on a growth of the seedling,calculate a seedling stress duration, wherein the seedling stressduration commences with the positioning of the first seedling in thegrowing system and terminates when growth is observed in the firstseedling, divide the seedling stress duration into a plurality ofsubphases, determine a subphase factor for a second seedling positionedin the growing system based on which subphase the second seedling hasreached based on an elapsed time, calculate the total number of on/offlight cycles and a duration for each on/off cycle, wherein one cycle isturning the lights on and off, and control the grow light to execute thetotal number of calculated on/off light cycles for the calculatedduration of time the lights are on and time the lights are off duringeach cycle in the growing system. The growing system may be a closedenvironment hydroponic system.

These and other systems, methods, objects, features, and advantages ofthe present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art fromthe following detailed description of the preferred embodiment and thedrawings.

All documents mentioned herein are hereby incorporated in their entiretyby reference. References to items in the singular should be understoodto include items in the plural, and vice versa, unless explicitly statedotherwise or clear from the text. Grammatical conjunctions are intendedto express any and all disjunctive and conjunctive combinations ofconjoined clauses, sentences, words, and the like, unless otherwisestated or clear from the context.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The disclosure and the following detailed description of certainembodiments thereof may be understood by reference to the followingfigures:

FIG. 1A describes a general plant growth curve including differentphases of plant development.

FIG. 1B depicts a graph of seedling stress.

FIG. 2 describes the variables used to compute a timed growth curve fora specific plant species.

FIG. 3 describes the formulas used for Phase A in the cycle of growth ofthe plant.

FIG. 4 describes the formulas used for Phase B in the growth cycle ofthe plant.

FIG. 5 describes the formulas used for Phases C and D in the growthcycle of the plant.

FIG. 6 is a side view of the system.

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the system.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the system including the recapturing of theoxygen according to the disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a side view of an electroculture system in a hydroponicenvironment. A wire is inserted at each end of the hydroponic solutionand then a current is conducted through the solution to generate anelectrical charge in the water.

FIG. 10 describes the optimum temperature range for a plant which has arecommended hydroponic nutrient temperature range of “R” for a givenplant species.

FIG. 11 is a top view of a rack apparatus with structural bracing plateconnecting the racks together.

FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic indication of an individual rack thatdescribes the nutrient supply and drainage system for the apparatus ofFIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a plan view of a rack system from a vertical view detailingthe brace system.

FIG. 14 is a descriptive view of the rack feet design and itsinstallation to the floor or the hydroponic system.

FIG. 15 depicts a side view of the lighting and pump elements of ahydroponic system using a low voltage d.c. system.

FIG. 16 depicts a top view of the wiring design of a 12 volt d.c. systemand the placement of the inverter box.

FIG. 17 depicts a side view of the wiring design of the hydroponicgrowing system.

FIG. 18 depicts a top and side view of a flood tray and the nutrientflow from the entry point into the flood tray to its drain.

FIG. 19 depicts an apparatus to insert in the flood tray to produce aneven distribution in a mature root environment.

FIG. 20 describes the different phases of plant growth and the optimalpH level based upon the stage of growth.

FIG. 21 depicts a dehumidification system.

FIG. 22 depicts a PLC controlling the hydroponic unit.

FIG. 23 describes a flow chart system to determine which variables tocontrol in chronological order.

FIG. 24 illustrates a table of variables to control that correspond tothe desired reduction in plant cell growth.

FIG. 25 illustrates environmental variables used in the hydroponicenvironment to control the plant cell replication.

FIG. 26 depicts a system for nutrient mixing.

FIG. 27 is a side view of a hydroponic container consisting of a numberof hydroponic shelving racks.

FIG. 28 depicts a single rack with LED lights.

FIG. 29 outlines the required wattage per square foot and the placementof LED lights.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In an aspect, a high growth, high density, closed environment hydroponicsystem for growth of plants on a continuous basis is described. Thesystem features very rapid growth and high, pesticide-free, on-siteproduction with a low carbon footprint. The system enables multipleharvests from the same seedling between retooling. The system enablesthe production of produce that has never been touched or sprayed andexhibits a long shelf life. In embodiments, various methods and systemsdisclosed herein may be used individually in a growing system. Inembodiments, one or more methods and systems may be used in combinationwith one another in a growing system. Further, various methods andsystems disclosed herein may be used in any growing system includinghydroponic systems, aquaculture systems, aeroponic systems, soillesssystems, terrestrial systems, and the like.

In an aspect, a method for adjusting the timing of an LED lightingsystem of a high-density growing system is provided. The growing systemmay be a closed environment hydroponic system. The timing of thelighting system is calculated from an equation based upon the seedlinggrowth inside the hydroponic environment along with the power anddistance of the LED grow lighting. The ON and OFF timing of the LEDlights is directly correlated to the plant's relative progress on thestandard plant growth curve. Represented by an equation, the timing ofthe lights may be determined by a number of variables along the plantgrowth curve to optimize the total time from which plants are grown froma first stage to a second stage.

LED light timing is an important aspect of plant growth in a hydroponicenvironment. LED lighting, which may include lights in the red and bluespectrum, may play a role in the plant's photosynthetic reaction. Growlighting provides the energy that drives the photosynthetic reaction inthe chloroplast, thus, the timing of plant exposure to this energysource is important in order to coordinate the photosynthetic reactionwith the building and replication of plant cells. Optimizing thephotosynthetic reaction in a plant is important. If too little energy(i.e. too little light) is provided, not enough of the photosyntheticreaction may occur to provide the sugar needed for cell replication. Iftoo much energy (i.e. too much light) is provided, energy that is notused in photosynthesis is transferred as heat into the plant cells,which can damage or destroy the cells. Therefore, an equation may beused to determine the optimum growing cycle for the plant regardless ofthe plant species. The present disclosure provides a method foroptimizing crop production in a growing system by using a timed lightingalgorithm.

Various plant maturity phases and other variables may be describedherein. Plant maturity phase—A is determined from the time the plant ispositioned in the hydroponic system until the first growth occurs in theplant. Plant maturity phase—B is determined from the time the plantstarts growing until new growth which could be either leaves or budsoccur. Plant maturity phase—C is determined from the time of new leavesor buds until the time plant maturity occurs in the plant as determinedby the plant species. Plant maturity phase—D is determined at the timethe plant is ready to be harvested.

Unless stated otherwise, “SS” refers to the total seedling stress timemeasured in the total number of hours from the time a plant seedling isplanted in the hydroponic grow system 34 until the time growth isnoticed in the seedling itself. Growth may be noted by a visual analysisbut may also be noted by video observation, laser sensors, orlocation/proximity sensors. Automatic size/growth stage measurement maybe made by examining the height, such as by video or laser or the like,weight of the plant, O₂ sensor to measure O₂ output in the air, PPMconcentration of the nutrient solution to determine consumption (e.g. asplants consume more water, elementals get more concentrated), and thelike.

Unless stated otherwise, “A_(i)” refers to the ratio factor, also knownherein as a subphase factor, used when turning on and off the lights inthe plant growing environment. Unless stated otherwise, “AT_(i)” refersto the total number of minutes the grow lights remain ON and anidentical number of minutes the grow lights remain OFF. Unless statedotherwise, “T_(s)” refers to the total time in a given Phase A_(i)measured in hours. Unless stated otherwise, “C_(s)” refers to the totalnumber of lighting cycles in a given Phase A_(i) (that is, a complete ONand OFF operation of equal time period AT_(i)). Unless stated otherwise,“R” refers to the daily recommended lighting time for a given plantspecies measured in hours.

Referring to FIGS. 1A and 3, the plant growth curve is divided amongfour distinct phases of growth, Phases A, B, C, and D, which have beenpreviously described herein. Phase A is the seedling stress phasewhereby seedlings are immersed in a growth medium and begin to diebefore the roots have the ability to take in nutrients. Data in FIG. 1Billustrates that Phase A may be further delineated into three differentsubphases of seedling stress growth. These three subphases of seedlingstress growth may be equal in timing. In one embodiment, a seedlingstress phase duration may be 72 hours.

FIG. 3 delineates the three subphases labeled Phase A1, A2, and A3.

For Phase A1, determining the ratio factor of the seedling is done bymultiplying the seedling stress time by 1/600, as in equation 20depicted in FIG. 3. To determine the total number of ON/OFF cycles inthis subphase, the total timing of the light cycle in Phase A1 isdivided by two times the ratio factor of turning ON/OFF the lights, asin equation 21 depicted in FIG. 3. The timing intervals of these ON/OFFcycles is computed by taking the ratio factor of the seedling andmultiplying it by 60 to determine the total number of minutes in theON/OFF cycle, as shown in equation 14 depicted in FIG. 2.

For Phase A2, determining the ratio factor of the seedling is done bymultiplying the seedling stress time by 1/300, as in equation 22depicted in FIG. 3. To determine the total number of ON/OFF cycles inthis subphase, the total timing of the light cycle in Phase A2 isdivided by two times the ratio factor of turning ON/OFF the lights, asin equation 23 depicted in FIG. 3. The timing intervals of these ON/OFFcycles is computed by taking the ratio factor of the seedling andmultiplying it by 60 to determine the total number of minutes in theON/OFF cycle, as shown in equation 14 depicted in FIG. 2.

For Phase A3, determining the ratio factor of the seedling is done bymultiplying the seedling stress time by 1/200, as in Equation 24depicted in FIG. 3. To determine the total number of ON/OFF cycles inthis subphase, the total timing of the light cycle in Phase A3 isdivided by two times the ratio factor of turning ON/OFF the lights, asshown in equation 25 depicted in FIG. 3. The timing intervals of theseON/OFF cycles is computed by taking the ratio factor of the seedling andmultiplying it by 60 to determine the total number of minutes in theON/OFF cycle, as shown in equation 14 depicted in FIG. 2.

Once new leaves or buds have grown on the plant, the plant enters PhaseB of the growth cycle. This phase is defined from when new growth isstarted until a full leaf or bud has developed relative to the otherleaves or buds in the seedling.

FIG. 4 illustrates the two subphases of Phase B labeled B1 and B2. In anembodiment, Phase B1 and Phase B2 may be equal in duration.

For Phase B1, the amount of hours ON for the lighting is determined bymultiplying ⅓ by the recommended lighting cycle for a given plantspecies specified in hours, as shown in equation 26 depicted in FIG. 4.The OFF time is calculated by subtracting ⅓ times the recommendedlighting cycle from twenty-four hours, as shown in equation 27 depictedin FIG. 4. In an embodiment, a recommended lighting cycle may be 18hours.

For Phase B2, the amount of hours ON for the lighting is determined bymultiplying ⅔ by the recommended lighting cycle for a given plantspecies specified in hours, as shown in equation 28 depicted in FIG. 4.The OFF time is calculated by subtracting ⅔ times the recommendedlighting cycle from twenty-four hours, as shown in equation 29 depictedin FIG. 4.

Referring now to FIG. 5, Phase C is considered the growth of a full leafor bud relative to the previously determined plant's maturity. Tocalculate the timing of the lights, it is determined that the lights arein the ON position for a period that is recommended for that given plantspecies, as shown in equation 30. The time that the lights are OFF inthis cycle is determined by subtracting the recommended light cycle in agiven day from twenty-four to determine the hours OFF, as shown inequation 31.

For Phase D, also shown in FIG. 5, when the plant has reached its finalmaturity status, the time that the lights are ON is determined bymultiplying ½ by the recommended lighting cycle, as shown in equation32. The time the lights remain off is determined by subtracting ½ timesthe recommended lighting cycle from twenty-four hours.

In practice, exposing seedlings according to formula-driven light cyclesmay result in minimizing over-exposure to light energy in the early,sensitive stages of growth. One result may be a lighting profile such asseedlings receiving 1 hour of light exposure then 15 minutes restinitially, then 2 hrs on and ½ hr off, until the seedling is ready for afull light cycle, such as an 18 hr light cycle or 12 hrs on/3 hrs off.

In embodiments, the lighting system in the growing system may beprogrammed with a lighting algorithm in accordance with the formulaspresented herein. Thus, a computer may be programmed to adjust thetiming and duration of lights based on the identified stage of growth ofa plant in accordance with calculated light cycles. Further, lights inthe red and blue visible spectrum promote photosynthesis, so a computermay be programmed to utilize a mix of red and blue lighting, such as75/25 red to blue, 85/15 red to blue, and the like. The red/blue mix maybe programmed in accordance with a specific plant species. The algorithmmay also be programmed to cause the LED or OLED lights to emit light ofonly a certain wavelength. The algorithm may be further programmed toselect specific wavelengths in accordance with certain plant species.For example, basil has a photosynthetic preference for blue light andwavelengths of 430-660 nm. In an embodiment, plant-specific LED growlights may emit light of a certain wavelength or color. Choosingplant-specific wavelengths/colors may optimize growth but may alsoenable minimizing power consumption by the hydroponic unit.

To prevent damaging mature plants and causing bitterness, light energymay be withdrawn when the plant approaches maturity/harvest stage andexposure to the nutrient solution should also be minimized.Concomitantly, temperature may also be reduced. Reducing lighting andheating in the pre-harvest stage may slow cell replication and may avoidexcessive nutrient density.

In embodiments, one or more of the following may be varied based uponthe maturity of the plant: light intensity, light spectrum applied,temperature, nutrition, CO₂ partial pressure/atmosphere mix, andhumidity. In one embodiment, the nutrition provided is adjusted basedupon root temperature. In other embodiments, the root temperature isadjusted based upon the nutrition provided. In an embodiment, the CO₂pressure may be changed based upon the maturity of the plant. Othersimilar permutations of the interplay between variables may beenvisioned.

This disclosure also provides a method and system for optimal carbondioxide enrichment and the use of the oxygen generated by a plant forplant production. The system involves suspending carbon dioxide tubingin a secured position on one side of a plant media tray. The carbondioxide tubing may also be secured to either the wall, the shelvingunit, float tray or tub to enable blowing the carbon dioxide across theplants and allowing for the carbon dioxide to be evenly dispersedrelative to the plants. The systems and methods for carbon dioxideenrichment may be used in any growing system, such as a closedenvironment hydroponic system.

When carbon dioxide levels are between 1000 and 1500 PPM, plants consumemore light energy, base nutrients, water and oxygen to create a maximumrate of photosynthetic activity. This maximum rate of photosyntheticactivity results in the astonishing plant yields gardeners strive for.The major hurdle in achieving this goal is the fact that the averagelevel of carbon dioxide in the air is merely 300 PPM. Plants arecomposed of 80-90% carbon and water, while most of the carbon in plantscomes from the minimal 300 PPM level of carbon dioxide in the air. Whilethe indoor gardening industry has experienced amazing advances inlighting, nutrients, pest control, cloning and hydroponics, a limitingfactor in maximizing the potential of an indoor garden is the amount(and lack of) available carbon dioxide in a grow room's climate.

Carbon dioxide is one of the three main components needed for plantgrowth, but the level of carbon dioxide in the air is only 0.03%. Thiscompares to 78% Nitrogen, 21% Oxygen and 0.97% trace gases in normalair.

At such a low level of 300 PPM in the air, plants can easily consume allof the carbon dioxide in a hydroponic environment in a matter of hours.Plants are only able to produce up to the limited amount of carbondioxide available, and once carbon dioxide levels are 200 PPM or lower,photosynthetic activity will diminish and may eventually stopaltogether.

When the carbon dioxide supply in a hydroponic environment ceases toexist, so does photosynthesis. The process of photosynthesis mixescarbon dioxide and water to produce sugars and free oxygen.Photosynthesis occurs only in the presence of light and is thereforeuseless, and even harmful to enrich the plants with carbon dioxideduring the dark (lights off) period of plant production.

Research has shown that increasing carbon dioxide will increase plantsize, yield, vigor and speed up growth. Plants grown with increasedlevels of carbon dioxide are also less prone to common insect anddisease issues. By increasing carbon dioxide levels to 1000-1600 PPMduring the lights on period, research has shown carbon dioxideenrichment can increase yields 25-50%. However, a carbon dioxideconcentration greater than 1600 PPM may cause partial or completeclosure of the plant stomas (tiny openings in the plant leaf), which isa vital component for photosynthesis. Thus, careful control of ambientcarbon dioxide levels is critical in maintaining an optimal grownenvironment.

Carbon dioxide is heavier than air. At 77 degrees Fahrenheit, carbondioxide weighs 66 ounces per 3 cubic feet, while air weighs 42 ouncesper 3 cubic feet at the same temperature. Aside from being heavier thanair, carbon dioxide moves slowly downward from its distribution pointand only travels a short distance through the diffusion process.

When implementing carbon dioxide enrichment methods, careful planningand positioning of equipment may ensure the dispersed carbon dioxide isdirected toward the plant zone so it can be absorbed by the plants at amaximum capacity. Plants will consume all of the available carbondioxide around their leaves within minutes. Thus, a need exists for amethod and system that disperses carbon dioxide from an optimaldistribution point, in a controlled manner to ensure optimal levels ofcarbon dioxide in the atmosphere, and in accordance with a lightingprofile.

While there are different forms of carbon dioxide enrichment such as dryice, fermentation and decomposition of organic matter, the two mostcommonly used forms of carbon dioxide enrichment are combustiongenerators and compressed carbon dioxide tanks.

Carbon dioxide generators are industrial units that burn fuel to producecarbon dioxide. As a result of the high amount of excess heat put out bythese units, they are typically suggested for indoor gardens orgreenhouse operations larger than 1000 cubic feet. To avoid theincreased temperature issues that coincide with carbon dioxidegenerators, many closed loop hydroponic environments use a compressedcarbon dioxide tank and regulator as their form of carbon dioxideenrichment.

Compressed carbon dioxide comes in metal containers under high pressurewith pressure ranges from 1600 pounds per square inch (PSI) to 2200 PSI.This form of enrichment is referred to as a “timed release” system thatreleases a certain amount of compressed carbon dioxide from a tank at atimed rate of release. A “timed release” system requires a compressedcarbon dioxide tank (20, 50 lb., or the like), tank regulator and atimer. The regulator controls the quantity of carbon dioxide emittedinto the indoor garden atmosphere, while the timer controls preciselywhen and for how long the carbon dioxide is released.

Tubing, such as vinyl tubing, is attached to the tank regulator andpositioned in the carbon dioxide distribution tube for dispersing thecarbon dioxide. This tubing is referred to as “drilled” carbon dioxidetubing, where the carbon dioxide is vaporized through small holes in thetubing and homogenously dispersed throughout the hydroponic system.

Since oxygen is released by plants while carbon dioxide is beingabsorbed, this creates a dilution effect that diminishes the carbondioxide concentration. As a result, it would be an improvement to have amethod and system that would arrange the carbon dioxide tubingdistribution point in a manner where the carbon dioxide would beabsorbed while the expired oxygen is moved away from the plant. Theremoval of the expired oxygen from the system is important since itcould migrate back into the plants and dilute the carbon dioxideconcentrations. Thus, there is also a need of not only removing theoxygen from the vicinity of the plants but also capturing it, such asfor utilization.

As a result, there is a need for a method and system that would evenlydisperse carbon dioxide from a distribution point directly from the sideof a grow area, regardless of the design and layout of the hydroponicsystem and capture the oxygen so that it could be utilized inside thenutrient tank of the hydroponic system.

FIG. 6 shows a side view of a system from which the carbon dioxide isdistributed from the carbon dioxide tube 34 and blown across the plants,as shown by vector 36. Carbon dioxide distribution in accordance withvector 36 results in a negative pressure zone above the plants bycreating a circular wind motion 37 above the seedlings and plants. Thisforces the oxygen expired from the plants to roll over the hydroponicfloat media 35 and/or float tray downwards 38 towards the floor.

FIG. 7 depicts a top view of the system to distribute carbon dioxideacross the plants. The carbon dioxide is exchanged with oxygen which isremoved via inertial displacement.

One of the features of the system and method according to the presentdisclosure is the fact that by blowing the carbon dioxide across thehydroponic grow media, the possibility of carbon dioxide dilution withthe oxygen is greatly diminished or eliminated. This oxygen can then berecovered and blown back into the hydroponic nutrient tank to oxygenatethe nutrient solution. FIG. 8 depicts a full side view of the systemused to distribute the carbon dioxide system along with reclaiming theoxygen 39 and using the reclaimed oxygen in aerating the hydroponicnutrient solution. A bubbler in the nutrient tank may be used tointroduce the expired oxygen.

In order to maintain optimal levels of carbon dioxide in the system, thehydroponic unit may include a carbon dioxide system controller incommunication with a carbon dioxide sensor. When the sensor detects thatcarbon dioxide levels have dropped below a threshold, additional carbondioxide may be released. When the sensor detects that carbon dioxidelevels have exceeded a threshold, carbon dioxide dispersion may beceased. Additionally, excess carbon dioxide may be vented. Certain plantspecies require specific levels of carbon dioxide to achieve optimalgrowth, such as certain lettuces and basil. The processor may beprogrammed with a carbon dioxide saturation algorithm to control carbondioxide levels in accordance with the species being grown in thehydroponic unit, with a growth stage of the plants being grown, acombination thereof, and the like.

In embodiments, the system for carbon dioxide dispersion may be deployedon a rack so that individual racks in a hydroponic unit may each have alocal carbon dioxide flow vector that results in a local negativepressure above the rack and re-capture of expired oxygen at the bottomof the rack.

As the plant absorbs carbon dioxide, the resulting oxygen is capturedand negative pressure is applied by fans to push the oxygen towards thefloor. Once the oxygen is pushed into the floor area, a device picks upsthe oxygen and blows it into the hydroponic reservoir tank thusoxygenating the water. Oxygen can be recovered and aspirated back intothe hydroponic nutrient tank. FIG. 8 is a full side view of a systemused to distribute the carbon dioxide system along with an oxygenreclamation system 39 that recaptures the oxygen and directs the oxygeninto the hydroponic nutrient solution.

In embodiments, the hydroponic system is in a sealed container and highpressure CO₂ (hyperbaric) is utilized in the environment. Inembodiments, to assist with CO₂ absorption, it may be beneficial tospray an aqueous solution on the leaves that is saturated with CO₂. Inembodiments, the partial pressure of nitrogen may be lowered and thepartial pressure of CO₂ increased in the hydroponic system.

This disclosure also concerns a method and system of optimizing plantcell growth in a hydroponic environment by utilizing low voltageelectroculture. This is done by supplying a positive and negativeelectrical connection into the water medium of the hydroponic solutionto excite the plant root structure. The amount of energy provided in thehydroponic water solution varies depending on plant species and thetimeline of the growth cycle of the plant.

Electroculture represents a field of study that examines the effects ofelectricity on plants. As electrical charges work to regulate metabolicprocesses in cells and tissues, directing electricity into or onto plantstructures may further stimulate these same processes. In doing so,plants may become more resistant to cold temperatures, diseases andother pathogens.

The earth has a natural frequency of approximately 8 Hz. It has beenfound that, by passing a small current though a plant and plant rootsystem at a certain frequency, such as the earth's natural frequency,plant growth and yield can be increased considerably.

FIG. 9 describes a system whereby a DC volt transformer 41 is used toconduct a current through a hydroponic growth medium 44 to electrify thenutrient solution at a frequency cycle ranging from 15 to 150 Hzdepending upon the plant species and genus.

A frequency meter 45 may be placed on the positive 42 and negative 43sides of the transformer 41 to measure the outflow and inflow of theelectrical current to assure the right frequency cycle is used for aparticular plant species.

Timing of the electrical current may correspond with one or more of alighting profile and a growth profile of the plants in the hydroponicsystem to provide varied amount and timing of root stimulation. A timer46 may be attached to the transformer 41 to regulate the timing of theroot stimulation. For example, electrical current may only be passedthrough the liquid nutrient solution at a the time the lighting for theplants is ON. An algorithm may be used in conjunction with a rootstimulation profile to apply electrical current.

A method for adjusting the temperature of the nutrient solution of ahigh density closed loop hydroponic plant growth system is provided. Thetiming of heating and cooling the nutrient solution is calculated froman equation based upon the seedling growth inside the hydroponicenvironment along with the power and distance of the grow lighting.

The growing of plants hydroponically involves supplying an aqueoussolution to the roots of the plants, for example by spraying solutiononto the roots or by keeping them immersed in the liquid solution. Thesolution is principally water with fertilizers and other nutrientsadded. Optimal growth, or even survival of the plants, may require thatthe roots be provided with an air-enriched solution and kept within aspecified temperature range. Typically, this is a lower temperaturerange than required for the portion of the plant above the roots. Thisparallels the situation in nature where the roots of the plant are inthe cooler ground, whereas the upper portions of the plant are in theair that is usually warmer than the ground when the plant is growing.

The hydroponic nutrient solution is not just a mix of fertilizer saltsand water, there are also a number of organisms and compounds commonlyfound in hydroponic systems, such as dissolved oxygen, which is vitalfor the health and strength of the root system as well as beingnecessary for nutrient uptake.

Most growers are familiar with the need to have some form of aeration intheir nutrient solution—whether it is in a recirculation or a mediabased system. In nutrient film technique (NFT) systems, this is oftenaccomplished with the use of an air pump or by allowing the nutrients tofall back into the reservoir, thus introducing oxygen. However, theeffect of temperature of the solution on the dissolved oxygen levels andon root respiration rates also needs to be taken into account. As thetemperature of the nutrient solution increases, the ability of thatsolution to maintain dissolved oxygen decreases. For example, the oxygencontent of a fully aerated solution at 10° C. (50° F.) is about 13 ppm,but as the solution warms up to 20° C. (68° F.) the ability of theliquid to maintain oxygen drops and the oxygen content drops to 9-10ppm. By the time the solution has reached 30° C. (86° F.), the oxygencontent is only 7 ppm.

While this may not seem like a huge drop in the amount of dissolvedoxygen, as the temperature of the root system warms, the rate ofrespiration of the root tissue also increases and more oxygen isrequired by the plant. For example, the respiration rate of the rootswill double for each 10° C. rise in temperature up to 30° C. (86° F.).So a situation can develop where the solution temperature increases from20°-30° C. (68°-86° F.) during the day, with a mature crop and a largeroot system, then the requirement for oxygen will double while theoxygen carrying capacity of the solution will drop by over 25%. Thismeans that the dissolved oxygen in solution will be much more rapidlydepleted and the plants can suffer from oxygen starvation for a periodof time.

The hydroponic growing operation may include a cooling system to coolthe aqueous solution before it is fed to the roots of the plant. Thiscooling system may be separate from the reservoir used to store thesolution. In addition, the solution may be aerated to optimize plantgrowth, such as with a separate aerator. The cooling system may be acondenser placed in or adjacent to the nutrient solution reservoir orthroughout the nutrient distribution system. Alternatively, the ambienttemperature in the hydroponic unit may be turned down. In any event,temperature sensors may be deployed throughout the hydroponic unit, suchas on racks, in the nutrient solution reservoir, in the hydroponic beds,on the floor, on the ceiling, and the like to report back to a processorthe temperature of the hydroponic unit, solutions, and the like.

FIG. 10 describes the optimum temperature range for a plant which has arecommended hydroponic nutrient temperature range of “R” 53 for a givenplant species.

Equations 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, and 52 describe the different nutrientsolution temperatures desired for each plant growth phase based on therecommended hydroponic nutrient temperature “R”.

In phase A of the plant's growth life cycle, cooler nutrient solutiontemperatures are desired while the plant is adjusting to its new liquidenvironment.

Referring to equation 47 in Phase A1, the hydroponic solution may becooled to a temperature of 70% of the recommended hydroponic nutrienttemperature R.

Referring to equation 48 in Phase A2, the hydroponic solution may becooled to a temperature of 75% of the recommended hydroponic nutrienttemperature R.

Referring to equation 49 in Phase A3, the hydroponic solution may becooled to a temperature of 80% of the recommended hydroponic nutrienttemperature R.

Referring to equation 50 in Phase B, the hydroponic solution may becooled to a temperature of 100% of the recommended hydroponic nutrienttemperature R.

Referring to equation 51 in Phase C, the hydroponic solution may becooled to a temperature of 100% of the recommended hydroponic nutrienttemperature R.

Referring to equation 52 in Phase D, the hydroponic solution may becooled to a temperature of 70% of the recommended hydroponic nutrienttemperature R. In embodiments, the plants may be further chilled beforeharvest, such as in order to halt or slow cell replication.

In an embodiment, a processor may be programmed with a heating timingalgorithm that calculates equations 47-53 and controls a temperature, byeither heating or cooling, of the nutrient solution to optimize plantgrowth. As described previously, determining the actual growth stage maybe done by visual analysis or various automated means, such as a videoobservation, a laser sensor, a location/proximity sensor, a weightmeasurement, a measurement of an O₂ output in the system by an O₂sensor, a measurement of a concentration of a nutrient solution, and thelike. The processor may first use the determined growth stage toidentify which Phase the plant is in when making optimal temperaturecalculations. Further, the algorithm may be able to make optimaltemperature calculations based on a predicted growth curve for a plantspecies, given data about when it was planted, and the like. Thus,measurement of plant growth may not be required or may be used toconfirm the optimal temperature calculations.

In accordance with the changing temperature in the hydroponic unit, anyexcess heat may be reclaimed.

In embodiments, the heating and cooling systems of the hydroponic unitenable high temperature growth of sun-sensitive species. For example,lettuce can handle high temperature, but not in sunlight. In thehydroponic unit, lettuce can be grown at high temperature conditionsusing red and blue light instead of sunlight.

Hydroponics may be described as a method of growing plants or othervegetation without the use of soil and is well-known as such. However,current apparatus operates essentially on a batch system whereas thereis a need, particularly in the production, for example of fodder foranimals, of a continuous system which will operate independently of theexternal environment where necessary, to produce a regular andcontinuous supply of herbage. The present disclosure seeks to provide amethod and apparatus for such a continuous system.

In its broadest aspect the present disclosure provides a method thatincludes taking the seedlings of a desired plant, placing them in areceptacle inside a high density high growth growing system whichprovides conditions for the growth of the seedlings and growth of themature plants, and then removing the mature plants from the receptacle.The disclosure further provides an apparatus that includes a series ofracks each capable of receiving a receptacle containing plants, eachdivided into a number of shelves in which the plants may be exposed tothe necessary environmental conditions for the particular stage ofgrowth in that zone. The growing system may be a closed environmenthydroponic system. Referring now to FIG. 11, a system for growingplants, either from seeds or seedlings, includes a float tray systemthat provides conditions for growth of seedlings/seeds placed within it,and growth of the eventually mature plants prior to their removal fromthe receptacle. The system includes a series of racks 55, each capableof receiving plants on a float that is located on a float tray 59. Thesystem also includes an HVAC system 54.

According to the present disclosure there is also provided a receptaclefor receiving plants including a tray having a drain hole, the drainhole being fitted with a drain control which includes a drain and tubethat returns the nutrient solution from the hydroponic system to thereservoir tank. A pump in the reservoir tank pumps the nutrient solutionup to the top of the rack where it is then piped downwards and out tothe flood tray. Additionally, the racks that are bolted together arealso bolted to the floor with a designed floor plate and braced acrosswith a structural bracing plate.

Referring now to the drawings, and in particular FIG. 11 and FIG. 12,there is illustrated a rack system for receiving plant receptacles. Thecontained hydroponic system contains racks on both sides of thecontainer. The rack system includes a number of racks 55 installed fromright to left and a number of other racks 55 sloping from left to right(as viewed in FIG. 11). The racks may traverse the length of the racksystem which is divided lengthwise into a number of zones which are theindividual racks described in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13. The apparatusillustrated in FIG. 11 is of a width to allow a rack on both sides of acontainer, but naturally the width of the apparatus is a matter ofchoice and it may be made narrower or wider as desired and according tothe space available.

Preferred forms of plant receptacles may be a polystyrene float thatfloat in the rack-mounted trays, but in general the plant receptacle mayinclude any tray capable of receiving plants having some form of drainhole to allow spent or excess nutrient or seeds to be removed. Trayscontaining young plants are entered onto the rack of the apparatus ontothe flood tray 59. The apparatus may be divided into four. Each zone isof such a length as to hold a certain number of trays of plants, and inmany cases the zones may hold equal numbers of trays of plants. Spacingin the racks may be high density. In one embodiment, there may be 120 mmbetween growth spaces, but optimal spacing may vary on the species. Forexample, basil may be spaced at 92 mm.

Trays may pull out from the racks. Trays may be mounted in such a way asto enable easy removal from the rack, such as with sliders, wheels orthe like. For mobile embodiments, the racks may include shock absorbers.

FIG. 11 shows a top view of the system whereby the racks are installedon both sides of the container 66 with a space that may or may not beused at one end as a harvest grow room 57. Each rack may be boltedacross from each other with a structural beam 65 that prevents the racksfrom swaying and provides stability in the overall rack design. Inembodiments, the rack system may include an HVAC system, a sealed doorsystem 56, and a top rack structural beam system 65.

FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 depict a single rack that may contain six shelveswhere the flood trays 59 rest upon. The rack includes an attachedplumbing design module 61 for pumping nutrient solution up to each ofthe six shelves into the flood trays from the nutrient fluid reservoirtank. Additionally, return plumbing 63 from the flood trays may bebolted to the opposite side of the rack.

Referring now more particularly to FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, a receptacle forreceiving plants may include a variety of different types of floatmediums. There may be a central drain orifice at one end of each floodtray with tubing that extends down along the rack and into the nutrientreservoir 63.

In embodiments, as in FIG. 12, the flood trays 59 may be 4 inches highand the total height of the rack may be 8 ft.

The amount, concentration, and type of nutrient solution may bedifferent for each rack according to the growth cycle of the particularplant being grown. Therefore, each of the racks 55 may be supplied froma separate tank of nutrient fluid reservoir 40 which may be pure wateror may have growth aiding nutrients or other chemicals within it. Theconditions can be selected at each stage in the plant's growth to favormaximum yields.

Carbon dioxide tubing 34 may be installed on the rack system. The carbondioxide may be blown across the shelving units to provide an increasedamount of saturation, as described herein. The amount and pressure ofthe carbon dioxide in the piping may be selected in accordance with thetype of plant species.

The light necessary to induce growth may be provided, for example, bymeans of fluorescent tubes or LED lights that are mounted to theunderside of the shelving unit, as shown in FIG. 15. Alternatively or inaddition, the apparatus may be situated so as to receive sunlight eitherexternally or through glass, transparent plastics materials or the like.

Once the system of the disclosure has been set in operation andseedlings have been planted, an apparatus such as those depicted in FIG.11, FIG. 12, FIG. 13 and/or FIG. 14 may be capable of producing largeyields.

FIG. 14 depicts the feet that are attached to the racks that stabilizethe entire rack system. A plate is measured to be at least three timesthe width of the shelving leg width and at least 1.3 times the length ofthe distance between the racking legs. The feet use an L-shaped bracketthat is attached to the bottom plate 67. Additionally, holes are drilledin the plate to allow bolting to the floor 69.

A low profile lighting system may provide more space for growth. Inembodiments, the rack-based system in the high growth, high density,growing system may be height-adjustable with high-density spacing, suchas to accommodate plant height (e.g. such as for taller romaine lettuceand French tarragon) and optimize lighting distance. Movable racks mayallow enough height when approaching maturity while enabling enoughpower to be delivered at the beginning of growth. Movement may beautomated based on height measurement, such as with a laser or videomeasurement. For example, as growth occurs in the seedlings and ismeasured, the measurement sensors may feedback to a controller for themovable rack to cause it to be moved further away from the seedling toaccommodate growth and/or to reduce the intensity of the light.

For static racks, an optimal light to seedling distance may becalculated. One distance may be eight inches. Optimal lighting placementfor LED lighting may optimize plant growth in a high growth, highdensity, closed environment hydroponic system.

A low voltage growing system may include lighting and mechanical systemsconnected to a step down transformer that converts high voltage a.c.power to d.c. low voltage power 62. Using a low voltage facilitates theuse of solar panels or wind generators to provide electrical power forthe unit and enables the use of cheaply and readily available 12 velectrical systems and batteries. 12 volt d.c. low voltage lighting andmechanicals are typically specified for two primary purposes inhydroponic environments: 1. The fixtures and mechanicals are generallysmaller; and 2. there is a wider variety of beam spreads in the bulbsavailable for grow lighting. The growing system may be a closedenvironment hydroponic system.

For the grow lighting, the reason smaller fixtures are possible issimple. Since the filament in the bulb only has to be able to carry 12volts instead of 120 volts, it can be made much smaller, perhaps ¼″ longinstead of 1″ long for a 120 volt bulb. Since the filament is smaller,the glass bulb around it or the LED can be made smaller, and thereforethe fixture can also be designed to be smaller.

The reason more beam spreads are available in a low voltage light isbecause a small filament or an LED can be aimed much more accuratelythan a larger one. For applications where light is to be pointed at aspecific spot, such as a specific plant, this may be important. Thelight created at the filament bounces off the reflector and goes in thedirection it is pointed. If the glowing filament is very small, veryprecisely designed reflectors may be used to position the light beam.With a larger filament, it is easy to end up with light beamsindiscriminately bouncing.

Certain HID grow lights, for example, with tight beam spreads may beused in much larger scale applications, where great distances from theplant to the light are involved, or less precision is required.

Additionally, low voltage hydroponic mechanical pumps, aerators, andfans are much more reliable and use much less energy than theirtraditional a.c. voltage counterparts. The average life of d.c.mechanical devices have a notable longer life also.

Most voltage used for hydroponic components are typically 120 a.c.voltage, but can vary between 110 volts and 130 volts. (Standard growlights are designed to operate at 120 volts. Since 120 volts is standardusing a 12 d.c. volt lighting system, a transformer is needed to convertthe voltage. This is often a significant part of the cost of a lowvoltage system.

There are many different “sizes” of transformers available. A smalltransformer may power a single light, or a giant transformer may power aplurality of lights. There are certain wattage ratings for transformersthat have become somewhat standardized.

Transformers are typically run at 80% of their capacity. For example,for powering 100 watts of lights, a transformer rated for at least 120watts should be used. However, most major manufacturers have already“de-rated” their transformers. This “de-rating” is partly due to thefact that the transformers are not 100% efficient. Some of the capacityof the transformer is used up in its “transforming” function, and someis wasted as heat.

In embodiments, there may be special wiring requirements for lowvoltage, which simply means that a thicker wire than is typically usedin a regular line voltage system is used. One of the biggest advantagesof using low voltage wiring in a hydroponic environment is that certainnational or local codes require electrical connections to be enclosed insome sort of metal box, and grounded. This is true for low voltage also;however, circuits under 60 watts do not have to meet this requirement.New transformers typically have plastic cases because they have overloadand short-circuit breakers built in. Therefore, it may not be necessaryto ground the low voltage side of the transformer, only the 120 voltwires coming in to it. Any circuit over 60 watts should be in a metalbox.

FIG. 15 describes a side view of the lighting and pump elements of ahydroponic system using a low voltage d.c. system showing the placementof lights 1500 relative to flood trays 59, as well as the reservoir 40and the step down transformer that converts high voltage a.c. power tod.c. low voltage power 62.

FIG. 16 describes a top view of the wiring design of a 12 volt d.c.system and the placement of the inverter box. The 12 volt dc aerator 44is connected to the AC to DC inverter box 71 by a 12 volt DC line 72.The d.c. low voltage power 62 is connected to the AC to DC inverter box71.

FIG. 17 describes a side view of the wiring design of the hydroponicgrowing system.

This disclosure provides systems and methods for overcoming the adverseeffects of root nutrition depletion during hydroponic cultivation whenthe nutrient solution enters at one end of a hydroponic system and isdrained at a second end.

One of the major problems of hydroponic systems is that of unevennutrient solution feeding to plants in a hydroponic flood trayenvironment. When plants in a water-based solution start to develop rootsystems, water tends to flow around the central portion of the floodtray and follow the path of least resistance on the outer parts of theflood tray. Because of this, metabolism of the plants in the nutrientsolution immediately around the root system progressively inhibits theuptake of fresh nutrient salts, gases and water, and causes the plantsclosest to the drain area of the flood tray to receive less nutrientsand minerals, thus “starving” a plant.

In static nutrient solutions, this problem is not as extreme. Theabsorption from the area immediately around the roots and the provisionof fresh nutrients and dissolved oxygen to the roots are limited to thatwhich can be achieved naturally and does not create a problem of someplants receiving fewer nutrients than others. This problem can bemitigated or overcome by a method of growing a plant hydroponicallywhich includes supplying nutrient solution to the root of a plant byincreasing the pressure and flow of the solution toward the centerportion of the flood tray. This, in turn, would provide more solutionthrough the center of the flood tray where the root system of the plantis the densest.

The flow of nutrient solution may be induced by capillarity and takesthe form of increased flow of the nutrient solution moving along thesurfaces of the interlinked root structure. To take advantage of thissupply of nutrient solution the roots of the plants, which arethemselves hydrophilic, may develop intimate contact with flow and drawnutrients and water from them at the same rate as the plants on theouter edges of the flood tray. As long as the amount of nutrientsolution flowing is greater than that taken up by the root system, therewill be a residual flow through and beyond the roots. The results may beobtained when the volume of nutrient solution conveyed to the denserroot area in the center of the flood tray is increased approximately100% in flow rate and pressure.

One important advantage of the system is that it greatly reduces therequirement for consistent balance of the nutrient solution. Since allplants in the flood tray exhibit the same amount of absorption, thenutrient solution is better balanced for control. One of the mainattractions of the system is that it enables the plants to maintainvigorous growth over extended periods even in low oxygenated solutions.

Referring to FIG. 18, plants are stationary in a flood tray environmentusing a variety of grow media. The roots 73 of the plant 74 are denserin the center of the flood tray therefore receive fewer nutrients as thesolution is introduced from the entry point 61. However, using theapparatus in FIG. 19, a tube 75 is inserted into the flood tray withsmall holes of differing sizes, such as hole 76 and hole 80. With thesupply line of the solution 61 connected to the tube 75, it provides anevenly distributed environment from which greater solution is pumpedover the center plant roots than down the sides.

The number of holes in the apparatus is determined by spacing the holesat ½ inches apart. Since different hydroponic systems have differentflow rates, different sized holes may be utilized to find which willprovide the best flow and pressure rates for that specific flood trayenvironment.

In an embodiment, the size and number of holes is determined by aformula, whereby L is the total length of the apparatus called thedispersion bar 79 and the larger center holes will be located along oneportion 78 of the total length of the dispersion bar 79, such as aportion that is one half the length of the total bar 78. The diameter ofthe holes 80 in the center part of the dispersion tube 75 may be fourtimes the diameter (S) 76 of the holes on the outer areas of thedispersion bar. In embodiments, the flow of nutrients across the rootsystem may be from the root tip to the mature root. By providing freshnutrient solution to the root tip, the hydroponic system is mimickingnatural conditions wherein the root tip grows into fresh soil.

A tray pump may pump solution out from the reservoir and into thesystem. A circulating pump may pull water into the system on one side,but gravity may pull the solution out of the tray and into the tank. Thesolution circulation system may include a particulate filter (e.g. 0.5micron filter). Alternatively, solution may be gravity fed from one endand drained at the other end. A back pressure may be created so thatdownstream plants receive enough nutrients. As the root system getsdenser, valves pumping solution may be opened wider. A pipe or screensystem may be included in the tray to provide nutrient solution alongthe length of the tray. Solution may be fed from both ends of the trayto produce turbulent flow. Sensors/flow meters may be deployed in thetrays to measure solution flow. Other meters/sensors deployable in thetrays include temperature sensor, alkalinity meter, particulate meter,pH sensor, light/UV sensor, moisture sensor on an exterior of the trayor on floors to check for spills/cloggage, nitrate sensor, massspectrometers, and the like. These sensors/meters may be used to monitorand report on conditions in the hydroponic unit. The sensors may furtherenable external control and monitoring and aggregate reporting for aplurality of units. Sensors may be distributed for different watersystems.

This disclosure also concerns the timing of optimal pH balance for eachplant species during its growth cycle. pH is important because itaffects availability and absorption of several of the 16 atomic elementsneeded for plant growth. Maximum absorption of these elements may befound at pH readings 5.5 to 6.5. When pH falls below this range, many ofthe macro elements (nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), etc.)may have less availability and absorption of the micro nutrients mayreach toxic levels.

Throughout the cycle of plant growth, it has been normally thought thatthe pH balance for the plant should be steady and constant. Optimal pH'sof a nutrient solution for a given plant species is necessary sinceplants maximize the absorption of elements at different pH levels.Varying pH throughout the growth cycle, as opposed to the steady andconstant paradigm, may encourage nutrient absorption of particularelements at different growth cycle stages in a high growth, highdensity, closed environment hydroponic system.

FIG. 20 describes the different phases of plant growth and the optimalpH level based upon the stage of growth. ‘P’ is designated as theaverage plant pH preference 87. This is commonly determined fromprevious literature and other research for the given plant species. Oncethat has been determined, the plant's pH may be adjusted in accordancewith the current growth phase. The Phase A1 optimal pH 81 is actuallyhigher and may be calculated by multiplying the plant's pH preferenceby 1. The Phase A2 optimal pH 82 is actually higher and may becalculated by multiplying the plant's pH preference by 1.1. The Phase A3optimal pH 83 may be the preferred pH. The Phase B optimal pH 84 isactually higher and may be calculated by multiplying the plant's pHpreference by 0.6. The Phase C optimal pH 85 is actually higher and maybe calculated by multiplying the plant's pH preference by 1.2. The PhaseD optimal pH 86 may be the preferred pH. A low pH early in the growthcycle may aid absorption of phosphorus and nitrogen in the seedlingstage. Higher, or varied, pH's are optimal for the absorption of certainco-factors and trace elements, such as molybdenum at pH 9. Areticulating nutrient system may support multi-pH irrigations formulti-root plants.

This disclosure concerns an apparatus for controlling the condition ofair in an enclosure, and more particularly for controlling thetemperature and humidity of air in an enclosure, such as a sealedcontainer for hydroponic plant growth. In embodiments, humidity controlmay be related to at least one of temperature control and lightingcontrol.

During grow light hours, growing agricultural products introduces watervapor into the air and extracts carbon dioxide from the air. The growthof such products is enhanced when excess carbon dioxide is introducedinto the environment during daylight hours. When this water vapor isadded to the water vapor products by the growing agricultural products,saturated, or nearly saturated conditions are created within thecontainer. This condition of high humidity produces undesirable stresson all but tropical plants, and increases susceptibility of the plantsto various diseases whose control requires periodic spraying or othertreatment. As a consequence, considerable resistance has beenencountered in applying this approach to plant management.

Referring now to FIG. 21, throughout the cycle of plant growth,dehumidification of the air is desired. However, since this water isconsidered mineral and salt free, it can be reused as additional waterin plant nutrient fluid reservoirs 40. This is accomplished byredirecting the hose assembly 88 from the HVAC system 54 that wouldnormally be directed outside the hydroponic container to drain theexcess water into one of the rack reservoirs 40. A climate controllermay control the dehumidification process. Avoiding excess moisture thatinhibits CO₂ from entering chloroplasts may impact plant growthpositively. In one embodiment, humidity may be maintained at 65%.

This disclosure concerns slowing down the process of plant cellreplication in a growing system by controlling certain environmentalfactors. The process is determined first by reviewing the amount of theplant cell replication reduction as a variable in terms of percentageand then using an equation to determine what variables are required tobe controlled to achieve that desired reduction or acceleration in plantcell replication. The growing system may be a closed environmenthydroponic system.

Referring now to FIG. 25, by controlling environmental variables, cellreplication may be slowed or accelerated. There may be six or moredifferent environmental control variables: two air temperature settings,two nutrient processes, two grow light settings, and the like. Forexample, regarding variable A1 118, the air temperature may be reducedto 64° F. In another example, regarding variable A2 119, the airtemperature may be reduced to 58° F. In another example, regardingvariable B1 120, the nutrient solution may be replaced with water with a7 pH. In still another example, regarding variable B2 121, the nutrienttemperature may be reduced to 64° F. In still another example, regardingvariable C1 122, the recommended lighting cycle 124 for a given plantspecies in a given hours/day may be reduced to one third. In yet anotherexample, regarding variable C2 123, the recommended lighting cycle for agiven plant species in a given hours/day may be reduced to one fifth.

Referring to FIG. 24, plant cell replication may be slowed in anapproximate range by referring to the percentage decrease in growth. Forexample, if it is desired to slow the plant cell replication byapproximately 30-45% (115), or extend grow time of an 80 day cropanother 24 to 36 days (115), using the FIG. 24 table provided, the airtemperature of the hydroponic environment would be reduced to below 64degrees (variable A1 118), the nutrient solution temperature would bereduced to below 64 degrees (variable B2 121), and the recommendedlighting cycle for that given plant species would be reduced to onethird of the total given hours/day (variable C1 122). In one example,cell replication may be slowed in advance of a harvest. For example, ifit is desired to slow the plant cell replication by less than 10% (113),the air temperature of the hydroponic environment would be reduced tobelow 64 degrees (variable A1 118). For example, if it is desired toslow the plant cell replication by approximately 10-30% (114), the airtemperature of the hydroponic environment would be reduced to below 64degrees (variable A1 118) or below 58 degrees (variable A2 119), and therecommended lighting cycle for that given plant species would be reducedto one third of the total given hours/day (variable C1 122). Forexample, if it is desired to slow the plant cell replication byapproximately 45-80% (116, 117), the air temperature of the hydroponicenvironment would be reduced to below 64 degrees (variable A1 118), thenutrient solution temperature would be reduced to below 64 degrees(variable B2 121) and/or the nutrient solution can be replaced with pH 7water (variable B1 120), and the recommended lighting cycle for thatgiven plant species would be reduced to one fifth of the total givenhours/day (variable C2 123).

It should be noted that a range is given since different plant speciesreact differently across a spectrum of variables but in general willprovide the reduction in the given parameters.

FIG. 23 provides a flow chart such that it gives a guideline from whichorder the variables are executed in the modulation of the plant cellreplication process. Logical flow starts at step 103 and proceeds to anenvironmental cooling process A 104, a nutrient flush process B 107,and/or a Lighting Process C 110. The environmental cooling process A 104proceeds to step 105 where the temperature is set. Logical flow mayfurther proceed to step 106 where the temperature is further set to anew setting. The nutrient flush process B 107 proceeds to step 108 wherethe nutrient solution is flushed out for water. Logical flow may furtherproceed to step 109 where the temperature of the solution is set to anew setting. The Lighting Process C 110 may proceed to step 111 wherethe light timing is set to ⅓ of the recommended lighting cycle. Logicalflow may continue to step 112 where the light timing is further set to ⅕of the recommended lighting cycle.

In embodiments, modifying the aforementioned variables may be used in amethod of accelerating plant cell growth in a growing system. Acombination of one or more of optimizing nutrient solution in accordancewith a growth curve, calibrating the pH of the solution to optimizenutrient absorption throughout the growth curve, controlling temperaturethroughout the growth cycle and at maturation, adjusting the lighting inaccordance with a growth stage, and controlling the delivery of carbondioxide, both in time and in a direction of application, may result inoptimized or accelerated cell replication and plant growth. The growingsystem may be a closed environment hydroponic system.

This disclosure details the type and method of mixing a nutrientsolution inside a hydroponic reservoir to provide the correct mixture ofnutrients delivered to the plants. Unless proper mixing of the solutionin the reservoir is done, the resulting solution may have a strongerconcentration in some parts of the reservoir and less in others robbingthe plants of the vital nutrients required.

When a hydroponic solution is dispersed over the roots of plants, eitherthrough hydroponics or aeroponics, the return nutrient solution usuallyhas a lower concentration of elemental nutrients since the plant absorbsmany of these elements. When this solution is returned to the reservoir,there is an imbalance of solution elements that could in turn starveplants if they were continuously recirculated in the system.

To prevent this, there are two methods to correct this problem.Referring to FIG. 26, two mixing pumps 127 are inserted at the end ofthe return nutrient drain 130 and direct 128 that nutrient solutionmixture to be pushed into the other end of the reservoir tank 129towards the feeding pump 125, which has a supply line 131 to a planttray. While the nutrient solution is being directed 128 to the other endof the reservoir tank 129, the solution passes over aerators 126 thatprovide oxygenation to the solution before it is then received by thefeeding pump 125.

This method ensures a complete even mixture with the existing nutrientsolution in the reservoir tank 129 and provides necessary oxygenationbefore the nutrient solution is transported to the plants.

One advantage of having multiple mixing pumps 127 and aerators 126 isthat it provides a failsafe design in case one of the components fails.

In an embodiment, the nutrient solution includes a hydroponic mix(26/5/5/15), a calcium Nitrate (15/5/0/0), or the like. A lowerconcentration of nutrient solution may be used for seedlings, then afull concentration may be used later in the growth cycle. Calcium may beadded in the middle of the growth curve while nitrate is removed.Boronic copper and zinc may be added as additive to support cellreplication. Magnesium and molybdenum may also be added at variouspoints in the growth curve. The nutrient solution may also be ionized inthe system.

A nutrient profile may be based on plant growth profile or growth statusin a high growth, high density, closed environment hydroponic system

This disclosure concerns a hydroponic system whereby hydroponic shelvingracks are separated and individual systems are set up in a container toisolate and reduce the potential of pathogenic and bacteria risk thatmay occur in the hydroponic plant production process.

By building a continuous yet individual and separate hydroponic systemfor each rack in a container environment, the risk of bacteria orpathogen infection in the nutrient solution, shelving units, or air isreduced thereby preventing an entire production plant crop from beingsubjected to destruction. A distributed solution delivery systemprovides isolation from contamination in a high growth, high density,closed environment hydroponic system.

FIG. 27 is a side view of a hydroponic container consisting of a numberof hydroponic shelving racks. Each rack is labeled and is considered anindependent grow system from each of the other racks 133 to 137. Eachunit may have a plurality of racks, such as ten racks, and each rack mayhold a plurality of trays, such as six trays. Rack 133 is used in anexemplary fashion to illustrate the isolation process between each ofthe racks.

Each rack contains a number of flood trays 141 on the rack. The nutrientsolution resides in the reservoir 143 and is pumped only to the floodtrays above the reservoir tank via a feeding pump 139 and pumped throughthe hydroponic piping 138 and then the nutrient solution is distributeddownward to each flood tray 141. The nutrient solution is then receivedinto a drain hole at the opposite end of the flood tray and a hose 140from each rack is directed downward back into the reservoir tank 143.Once the nutrient solution reaches the reservoir tank, a series ofmixing pumps 142 mix the return nutrient solution with the existingsolution in the tank.

Each rack may use one dedicated reservoir to minimize the impact ofaccidents with pathogens or contaminants, but also enables selectivityas to what each rack receives.

Other ways of reducing contamination in the hydroponic system includeplacing a UV light into reservoir, using HEPA filters for air scrubbing,using anti-microbial coating on surfaces, using anti-microbial paint onfloors, using an electronic scrubber to ionize the air and removeelectrostatic particles that do not support photosynthesis, using analcohol to decontaminate the system, using a filter on the circulationpump, and the like.

Filling the reservoir may be done in the presence of a Charcoal filter.

A growing system may utilize LED lighting. The growing system maycomprise a container, a shelving rack, and flood trays whereby the LEDlights provide all the lighting necessary for the growth of a specificplant species. The growing system may be a closed environment hydroponicsystem. The container may be a hydroponic container.

FIG. 28 depicts a rack 144 with LED lights 145, either in a row or boxdesign whereby the light emission 146 is downward upon the flood tray147.

FIG. 29 outlines the suggested wattage per square foot (R_(w)) and theplacement of LED lights with a total coverage factor of red LED versusthe blue LED and the wavelengths suggested for a given plant species. Inan embodiment, R_(w) may be 25 watts for Red/Blue LED. In oneembodiment, the Red LED may be 640 Nm to 720 Nm and may account for 81%of the LED lights. In one embodiment, the Blue LED lights may be 400 Nmto 480 Nm and may account for 19% of the LED lights. In an embodiment,the red LEDs may account for a greater proportion f the LEDs than theblue LEDs.

LED lights may have a damp-proof housing. The housing may includesealing materials. The housing may include polyfilm plexiglass thatallows LED light to be transmitted. An anti-reflective coating mayreduce the reflection off the plexiglass.

The LEDs may be dimmable. LEDs may be dimmed in accordance with a growthcurve.

LEDs may include a lens that changes the optical profile of the LEDbased on a growth stage. For example, as the plant matures and grows,the optics may be changed to spread the light.

The hydroponic unit may be housed in a mobile facility, such as ashipping container or truck trailer. Such units may be scalable. Suchunits may be useful for emergency and disaster response. The hydroponicunit may be housed in a dedicated building or may be housed in buriedconcrete blocks. The movable, scalability of the units makes itattractive for a variety of deployment scenarios, such as a mobile unit,an on-site growth environment such as integrated into a retail store orfarmer's market, or the like. In one embodiment, while the unit is beingtransported, plants may be growing within. The system may be able todisplace transportation elements in supply chain by growing on-site orat strategic sites based on market needs. The flexibility of the unitmay enable it to meet spot market needs. The unit may be integrated withfood production systems for value-added foods (e.g., mixes; preparedfood systems).

The exterior of the unit may have reflective (or PV absorptive)technology, such as when deployed in high UV areas. Ingress and egressmay be tightly controlled, such as with a sealing door, optionallyincluding a slider system. The unit may include controls to track thestatus of sealing over time. The unit may include a dual door system,such as found in a clean room/holding area/air lock. Facial recognitionmay be used as a security method for ingress. Bar code or UPC labelingmay be used for tracking plants throughout the lifecycle. The bar codesmay be used on a per-rack, per shelf, per unit, per tray or per plantbasis.

The hydroponic system may be used to produce retail or commercialproduce.

A shelf elevator may be used in the unit to elevate items onto theracks. A shelf footing system may be used to stabilize the racks.

In an embodiment, a renewable/clean power source, or dedicated power,such as mini- or micro-cogen units, may be integrated with the highgrowth, high density, closed environment hydroponic system. Powersystems useful by the hydroponic system include grid, solar (off-grid),wind, hybrid systems, biodiesel generator, mini- or micro-cogenerationunits, and the like. In one example, 8.5 kW of power is needed to runthe lighting and heating.

A retooling method after harvest for a system for a high growth, highdensity, closed environment hydroponic system may include a chlorinedioxide cleanup system followed by HEPA filtration to remove thechlorine dioxide, decontamination of the system, such as with alcohol,vodka, or other decontaminant, draining water, refilling with refreshedde-ionized water, and replanting.

Referring now to FIG. 22, a PLC 95 may enable automatic control of allfunctions of the growing system, which may be a hydroponic growingsystem, using controllers, such as Air Controllers 97 (HVAC Control, FanControl, CO₂ Control, Evaporator Control), Nutrient Controllers 98(Dosing Controller, pH Controller), Mechanical Controllers 99 (PumpController, Aerator Controller), Lighting Controllers 100 (TimerControl, Power Control), Limit Controllers 101 (Fire Suppression,Shutdown Controller), Pathogen Controllers 102 (UV Controller, ElectricController), water flow controller, and the like. The controllers mayobtain data from one or more sensors that assist in determining acontrol needed. The sensors may include Air Sensors 89 (Humidity, Temp,Airflow, Airspeed, CO₂ Amount, CO₂ Flow), Nutrient Sensors 90(Elemental, pH, Temp, Total Alkalinity), Mechanical Sensors 91 (PumpFlow, Pump Output, Return Output, Aerator Output), Light Sensors 92(Timing, Intensity, Power Meter), Limit Sensors 93 (Fire, Water, Heat,Power, C), Pathogen Sensors 94 (Nutrient, Air, Water), and the like. Auser interface 96 may be used to input preferences, rules, reviewreports, review monitoring data, adjust controls, and the like. Forexample, users may be able to monitor multiple systems, doexternal/remote monitoring, do unit reporting, do aggregate unitreporting, and the like. Container and rack-based reporting may includeinformation on the contents, growth status, timing, alerts (e.g.contamination, problems with growth, safety), location, status ofentry/egress, entry/egress log, pathogen reporting, sealing status, andthe like. The system may include a contamination controller and sensor,an air lock control, a pathogen controller and sensor, and the like. Thecontrols/sensors may be in-line with an HVAC system and may set off analarm when there is contamination present.

In an embodiment, the hydroponic system enables produce to be producedin a high growth, high density, closed environment hydroponic system anddelivered without human hands ever touching it and without herbicideand/or pesticide treatment during growth, harvest or transportationphase. The resultant product may have a long shelf life.

Exemplary plants that can be grown in the hydroponic unit include carrotgreens, lettuces, buttercrunch lettuce, red line lettuce, romaine, blackseeded simpson, bistro blend, salad bowl, oak leaf, red leaf, kale, redRussian kale, collard greens, escarole, bok Choy, cannabis, dill, Frenchtarragon, mint, parsley, cilantro, rosemary, lavender, mustard,watercress, microgreens, basil, arugula, spinach, chives, sunflowers,wheatgrass, stevia, anti-oxidant rich plants, oil plants, soybean,algae, flax, camelina, crambe, thyme, oregano, herbs, flowers, and thelike.

Algorithms may be executed by a system-associated processor to optimizegrowth/energy consumption, track O₂ movement, deliver/reclaim water,handle all aspects of nutrition, utilize sensor data to control a systemfunction, iteratively determine a control sequence such as with amachine learning system, provide simulation-based control, perform amarket optimization (prices, inputs, outputs), determine and execute anutrient schedule, such as one based on a condition such as calciumdeficiency or one based on a profile.

Data from the system may be used in making a price prediction for theproducts. Data may feed into a spot produce market to instantly locateavailable buyers and negotiate prices.

Data from the system may be used in predictive analytics (e.g. Growthprediction), Growth cycle analysis, Event analysis (failure modes,Pathogen monitoring), performing a historical analysis of all controlledvariables at rack level for entire growth cycle, perform growth modelingand statistics, generate computer simulation models (tool kit), and thelike.

The methods and systems described herein may be deployed in part or inwhole through a machine that executes computer software, program codes,and/or instructions on a processor. The processor may be part of aserver, cloud server, client, network infrastructure, mobile computingplatform, stationary computing platform, or other computing platform. Aprocessor may be any kind of computational or processing device capableof executing program instructions, codes, binary instructions and thelike. The processor may be or include a signal processor, digitalprocessor, embedded processor, microprocessor or any variant such as aco-processor (math co-processor, graphic co-processor, communicationco-processor and the like) and the like that may directly or indirectlyfacilitate execution of program code or program instructions storedthereon. In addition, the processor may enable execution of multipleprograms, threads, and codes. The threads may be executed simultaneouslyto enhance the performance of the processor and to facilitatesimultaneous operations of the application. By way of implementation,methods, program codes, program instructions and the like describedherein may be implemented in one or more thread. The thread may spawnother threads that may have assigned priorities associated with them;the processor may execute these threads based on priority or any otherorder based on instructions provided in the program code. The processormay include memory that stores methods, codes, instructions and programsas described herein and elsewhere. The processor may access a storagemedium through an interface that may store methods, codes, andinstructions as described herein and elsewhere. The storage mediumassociated with the processor for storing methods, programs, codes,program instructions or other type of instructions capable of beingexecuted by the computing or processing device may include but may notbe limited to one or more of a CD-ROM, DVD, memory, hard disk, flashdrive, RAM, ROM, cache and the like.

A processor may include one or more cores that may enhance speed andperformance of a multiprocessor. In embodiments, the process may be adual core processor, quad core processors, other chip-levelmultiprocessor and the like that combine two or more independent cores(called a die).

The methods and systems described herein may be deployed in part or inwhole through a machine that executes computer software on a server,client, firewall, gateway, hub, router, or other such computer and/ornetworking hardware. The software program may be associated with aserver that may include a file server, print server, domain server,internet server, intranet server and other variants such as secondaryserver, host server, distributed server and the like. The server mayinclude one or more of memories, processors, computer readable media,storage media, ports (physical and virtual), communication devices, andinterfaces capable of accessing other servers, clients, machines, anddevices through a wired or a wireless medium, and the like. The methods,programs or codes as described herein and elsewhere may be executed bythe server. In addition, other devices required for execution of methodsas described in this application may be considered as a part of theinfrastructure associated with the server.

The server may provide an interface to other devices including, withoutlimitation, clients, other servers, printers, database servers, printservers, file servers, communication servers, distributed servers,social networks, and the like. Additionally, this coupling and/orconnection may facilitate remote execution of program across thenetwork. The networking of some or all of these devices may facilitateparallel processing of a program or method at one or more locationwithout deviating from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, any ofthe devices attached to the server through an interface may include atleast one storage medium capable of storing methods, programs, codeand/or instructions. A central repository may provide programinstructions to be executed on different devices. In thisimplementation, the remote repository may act as a storage medium forprogram code, instructions, and programs.

The software program may be associated with a client that may include afile client, print client, domain client, internet client, intranetclient and other variants such as secondary client, host client,distributed client and the like. The client may include one or more ofmemories, processors, computer readable media, storage media, ports(physical and virtual), communication devices, and interfaces capable ofaccessing other clients, servers, machines, and devices through a wiredor a wireless medium, and the like. The methods, programs or codes asdescribed herein and elsewhere may be executed by the client. Inaddition, other devices required for execution of methods as describedin this application may be considered as a part of the infrastructureassociated with the client.

The client may provide an interface to other devices including, withoutlimitation, servers, cloud servers, other clients, printers, databaseservers, print servers, file servers, communication servers, distributedservers and the like. Additionally, this coupling and/or connection mayfacilitate remote execution of program across the network. Thenetworking of some or all of these devices may facilitate parallelprocessing of a program or method at one or more location withoutdeviating from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, any of thedevices attached to the client through an interface may include at leastone storage medium capable of storing methods, programs, applications,code and/or instructions. A central repository may provide programinstructions to be executed on different devices. In thisimplementation, the remote repository may act as a storage medium forprogram code, instructions, and programs.

The methods and systems described herein may be deployed in part or inwhole through network infrastructures. The network infrastructure mayinclude elements such as computing devices, servers, cloud servers,routers, hubs, firewalls, clients, personal computers, communicationdevices, routing devices and other active and passive devices, modulesand/or components as known in the art. The computing and/ornon-computing device(s) associated with the network infrastructure mayinclude, apart from other components, a storage medium such as flashmemory, buffer, stack, RAM, ROM and the like. The processes, methods,program codes, instructions described herein and elsewhere may beexecuted by one or more of the network infrastructural elements.

The methods, program codes, and instructions described herein andelsewhere may be implemented on a cellular network having multiplecells. The cellular network may either be frequency division multipleaccess (FDMA) network or code division multiple access (CDMA) network.The cellular network may include mobile devices, cell sites, basestations, repeaters, antennas, towers, and the like. The cell networkmay be a GSM, GPRS, 3G, EVDO, mesh, or other networks types.

The methods, programs codes, and instructions described herein andelsewhere may be implemented on or through mobile devices. The mobiledevices may include navigation devices, cell phones, mobile phones,mobile personal digital assistants, laptops, palmtops, netbooks, pagers,electronic books readers, music players and the like. These devices mayinclude, apart from other components, a storage medium such as a flashmemory, buffer, RAM, ROM and one or more computing devices. Thecomputing devices associated with mobile devices may be enabled toexecute program codes, methods, and instructions stored thereon.Alternatively, the mobile devices may be configured to executeinstructions in collaboration with other devices. The mobile devices maycommunicate with base stations interfaced with servers and configured toexecute program codes. The mobile devices may communicate on a peer topeer network, mesh network, or other communications network. The programcode may be stored on the storage medium associated with the server andexecuted by a computing device embedded within the server. The basestation may include a computing device and a storage medium. The storagedevice may store program codes and instructions executed by thecomputing devices associated with the base station.

The computer software, program codes, and/or instructions may be storedand/or accessed on machine readable media that may include: computercomponents, devices, and recording media that retain digital data usedfor computing for some interval of time; semiconductor storage known asrandom access memory (RAM); mass storage typically for more permanentstorage, such as optical discs, forms of magnetic storage like harddisks, tapes, drums, cards and other types; processor registers, cachememory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory; optical storage such asCD, DVD; removable media such as flash memory (e.g. USB sticks or keys),floppy disks, magnetic tape, paper tape, punch cards, standalone RAMdisks, Zip drives, removable mass storage, off-line, and the like; othercomputer memory such as dynamic memory, static memory, read/writestorage, mutable storage, read only, random access, sequential access,location addressable, file addressable, content addressable, networkattached storage, storage area network, bar codes, magnetic ink, and thelike.

The methods and systems described herein may transform physical and/oror intangible items from one state to another. The methods and systemsdescribed herein may also transform data representing physical and/orintangible items from one state to another.

The elements described and depicted herein, including in flow charts andblock diagrams throughout the figures, imply logical boundaries betweenthe elements. However, according to software or hardware engineeringpractices, the depicted elements and the functions thereof may beimplemented on machines through computer executable media having aprocessor capable of executing program instructions stored thereon as amonolithic software structure, as standalone software modules, or asmodules that employ external routines, code, services, and so forth, orany combination of these, and all such implementations may be within thescope of the present disclosure. Examples of such machines may include,but may not be limited to, personal digital assistants, laptops,personal computers, mobile phones, other handheld computing devices,medical equipment, wired or wireless communication devices, transducers,chips, calculators, satellites, tablet PCs, electronic books, gadgets,electronic devices, devices having artificial intelligence, computingdevices, networking equipments, servers, routers and the like.Furthermore, the elements depicted in the flow chart and block diagramsor any other logical component may be implemented on a machine capableof executing program instructions. Thus, while the foregoing drawingsand descriptions set forth functional aspects of the disclosed systems,no particular arrangement of software for implementing these functionalaspects should be inferred from these descriptions unless explicitlystated or otherwise clear from the context. Similarly, it will beappreciated that the various steps identified and described above may bevaried, and that the order of steps may be adapted to particularapplications of the techniques disclosed herein. All such variations andmodifications are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure.As such, the depiction and/or description of an order for various stepsshould not be understood to require a particular order of execution forthose steps, unless required by a particular application, or explicitlystated or otherwise clear from the context.

The methods and/or processes described above, and steps thereof, may berealized in hardware, software or any combination of hardware andsoftware suitable for a particular application. The hardware may includea general purpose computer and/or dedicated computing device or specificcomputing device or particular aspect or component of a specificcomputing device. The processes may be realized in one or moremicroprocessors, microcontrollers, embedded microcontrollers,programmable digital signal processors or other programmable device,along with internal and/or external memory. The processes may also, orinstead, be embodied in an application specific integrated circuit, aprogrammable gate array, programmable array logic, or any other deviceor combination of devices that may be configured to process electronicsignals. It will further be appreciated that one or more of theprocesses may be realized as a computer executable code capable of beingexecuted on a machine readable medium.

The computer executable code may be created using a structuredprogramming language such as C, an object oriented programming languagesuch as C++, or any other high-level or low-level programming language(including assembly languages, hardware description languages, anddatabase programming languages and technologies) that may be stored,compiled or interpreted to run on one of the above devices, as well asheterogeneous combinations of processors, processor architectures, orcombinations of different hardware and software, or any other machinecapable of executing program instructions.

Thus, in one aspect, each method described above and combinationsthereof may be embodied in computer executable code that, when executingon one or more computing devices, performs the steps thereof. In anotheraspect, the methods may be embodied in systems that perform the stepsthereof, and may be distributed across devices in a number of ways, orall of the functionality may be integrated into a dedicated, standalonedevice or other hardware. In another aspect, the means for performingthe steps associated with the processes described above may include anyof the hardware and/or software described above. All such permutationsand combinations are intended to fall within the scope of the presentdisclosure.

The above systems and methods have been described in the context of ahydroponic system. It is to be understood that these systems and methodsapply equally to methods and systems which employ soil to grow plants.Many of these systems and methods may incorporate soil into the racksholding the plants and also result in the benefits described for thehydroponic systems and methods.

While the disclosure has been disclosed in connection with the preferredembodiments shown and described in detail, various modifications andimprovements thereon will become readily apparent to those skilled inthe art. Accordingly, the spirit and scope of the present disclosure isnot to be limited by the foregoing examples, but is to be understood inthe broadest sense allowable by law.

All documents referenced herein are hereby incorporated by reference.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for accelerating growth of a seedlingpositioned in a nutrient solution in a growing system comprising thesteps of: observing a seedling to monitor growth of the seedling over acourse of a plurality of plant maturity phases, wherein: a second plantmaturity phase commences when growth is first observed in the seedlingand terminates with a development of a full leaf or a bud relative toother leaves or buds in the seedling; a third plant maturity phasecommences at an end of the second plant maturity phase and terminateswhen full plant maturity occurs in the plant as determined by the plantspecies; and a fourth plant maturity phase commences with reaching fullmaturity and terminates when the plant is ready to be harvested;calculating a number of hours for an LED grow light to remain on duringa first portion of the second plant maturity phase by multiplying afirst fraction by a recommended lighting cycle in hours for a givenplant species; calculating a number of hours for the LED grow light toremain off during the first portion of the second plant maturity phaseby subtracting the first fraction times the recommended lighting cyclefrom twenty-four hours; calculating a number of hours for the LED growlight to remain on during a second portion of the second plant maturityphase by multiplying a second fraction by the recommended lighting cyclein hours; calculating a number of hours for the LED grow light to remainoff during the second portion of the second plant maturity phase bysubtracting the second fraction times the recommended lighting cyclefrom twenty-four hours; and executing the on/off light cycles for thecalculated durations in the growing system by controlling a grow lightin accordance with the on/off light cycles to result in acceleratedgrowth of the seedling.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the firstfraction is ⅓ and the second fraction is ⅔.
 3. The method of claim 1,further comprising, using the recommended lighting cycle for a number ofhours the LED grow light is to remain on per day during the third plantmaturity phase and calculating a number of hours for the LED grow lightto remain off during the third plant maturity phase by subtracting therecommended lighting cycle from twenty-four hours.
 4. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising, calculating a number of hours for the LEDgrow light to remain on per day during the fourth plant maturity phaseby multiplying ½ times the recommended lighting cycle and calculating anumber of hours for the LED grow light to remain off during the fourthplant maturity phase by subtracting ½ times the recommended lightingcycle from twenty-four hours.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein at leastone of a grow light wavelength, temperature, and nutrient concentrationis varied over the plant maturity phases.
 6. The method of claim 1,further comprising the step of: withdrawing nutrient solution when theplant reaches the fourth plant maturity phase.
 7. The method of claim 1,further comprising the step of: terminating all light cycles when theplant reaches a harvest stage.
 8. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising the step of: reducing a temperature in the growing systemwhen the plant reaches the fourth plant maturity phase.
 9. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the grow light is at least one of a red LED light and ablue LED light.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the grow light is ofa wavelength selected in accordance with a specific plant species. 11.The method of claim 1, wherein the growth is observed by a visualanalysis of the seedling.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the growthof the seedling is determined by one or more of a video observation, alaser sensor, and a location/proximity sensor.
 13. The method of claim1, wherein the growth of the seedling is determined by measurement of anO₂ output in the system by an O₂ sensor.
 14. The method of claim 1,wherein the growth of the seedling is determined by measurement of aconcentration of a nutrient solution to determine a seedlingconsumption.
 15. A method for accelerating growth of a seedlingpositioned in a nutrient solution in a growing system comprising thesteps of: observing a seedling to monitor growth of the seedling over acourse of a plurality of plant maturity phases, wherein: a second plantmaturity phase commences when growth is first observed in the seedlingand terminates with the development of a full leaf or a bud relative toother leaves or buds in the seedling; a third plant maturity phasecommences at the end of the second plant maturity phase and terminateswhen full plant maturity occurs in the plant as determined by a plantspecies; and a fourth plant maturity phase commences with reaching fullmaturity and terminates when the plant is ready to be harvested;calculating a number of hours for an LED grow light to remain on duringa first portion of the second plant maturity phase by multiplying afirst fraction by a recommended lighting cycle in hours for a givenplant species; calculating a number of hours for the LED grow light toremain off during the first portion of the second plant maturity phaseby subtracting the first fraction times the recommended lighting cyclefrom twenty-four hours; calculating a number of hours for the LED growlight to remain on during a second portion of the second plant maturityphase by multiplying a second fraction by the recommended lighting cyclein hours; calculating a number of hours for the LED grow light to remainoff during the second portion of the second plant maturity phase bysubtracting the second fraction times the recommended lighting cyclefrom twenty-four hours; executing the on/off light cycles for thecalculated durations in the growing system by controlling a grow lightin accordance with the on/off light cycles to result in acceleratedgrowth of the seedling; and wherein the growth of the seedling isdetermined by measurement of a weight of the seedling.
 16. The method ofclaim 15, wherein the first fraction is ⅓ and the second fraction is ⅔.17. The method of claim 16, further comprising, calculating a number ofhours for the LED grow light to remain on per day during the fourthplant maturity phase by multiplying ½ times the recommended lightingcycle and calculating a number of hours for the LED grow light to remainoff during the fourth plant maturity phase by subtracting ½ times therecommended lighting cycle from twenty-four hours.
 18. The method ofclaim 17, wherein the growth of the seedling is determined bymeasurement of an O₂ output in the system by an O₂ sensor.
 19. Themethod of claim 17, wherein the growth of the seedling is determined bymeasurement of a concentration of a nutrient solution to determine aseedling consumption.